Timeline
15:16
Grab a drink at 3rd Coast Cafe. It is an upscale late-night oasis with jazz and solo guitarists. The bar is open from 07:00 to 24:00 daily, so it is ready for you well before the golden hour.
15:41
International Museum of Surgical Science
Walk 10 minutes from the cafe to the International Museum of Surgical Science. Use the time to stroll N. Lake Shore Dr. between North Ave. and Burton Pl. The museum is open Mo-Fr 09:30-17:00 and Sa,Su 10:00-17:00, so you can pop in quickly if you like, or just use the exterior as a historic backdrop on your way to the lake.
16:01
Head to Oak Street Beach for the golden light moment. It is a 14-minute walk SSE from the museum. The sun sets toward the WSW, offering a clear view of the light fading over the water. This is one of the city's most popular spots for beach volleyball and walking, so expect a lively atmosphere.
16:41
End the evening at Old Town Ale House. It is a 12-minute walk back NNW from the beach. This old-time dive is decorated with photos and newspaper clippings showing its history and status among famous Second City alums. Note the very late hours: Mo-Fr 08:00-04:00, Sa 08:00-05:00, and Su 12:00-04:00.
Local tip
Oak Street Beach can get crowded. If you want a quieter spot, check the route to a less busy part of the lakefront path.
Check before you go
- 3rd Coast Cafe is open Mo-Su 07:00-24:00.
- Old Town Ale House hours vary: Mo-Fr 08:00-04:00; Sa 08:00-05:00; Su 12:00-04:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Chicago (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).